Black Raven, Mystical and Magical

"The raven is a bird of birth and death, 

and it is a bird of mysticism and magic."

Ted Andrews

Animals Speak

It was far too cold for me to walk in the park, but my body was screaming for movement. I bundled up and braved the bitter cold. My eyes were cast downward watching for ice, but I heard movement and looked up. There was a black bird flying right above me. The quick look wasn't enough to determine if it were a raven or a crow.

The black bird swooped by me, again, and settled into a tree. At this closer viewpoint, there was no doubt it was a raven. I know they are known to be strong, creative, and actively work the magic of spirituality on this physical plain. They are known to carry messages awakening our own magic within. Silently, I thanked the raven for appearing.

Back home, I grabbed my journal and jotted down characteristics of the raven.  Black ravens fly into the light, so maybe I need to release what I am repressing. Perhaps I need to recall my inner magic and create positive actions. I can let some things die while birthing others. I must choose to take flight, peacefully moving into the light. 

 

Mourning ...

"The song of the dove speaks to all who hear it. Its mournful

tones stir the emotions, the  internal waters."

Ted Andrews

While walking in the park, I asked my significant other if he knew what a Mourning Dove was as it is one of my most favorite birds. I proceeded to tell him that I had not seen one in a very long time, and missed hearing the haunting tones. These doves are a beautiful taupe color, mate for life, have two offspring yearly and return to the same nest every spring. 

The next day we were at the dinner table when movement caught my eye outside of the window. I slowly approached the window and discovered a Mourning Dove sitting on the ledge staring at me. (We were up on the 12th floor, hardly a place for it to be.) Joy filled my heart, as I knew it was there for me.

Another day passed and while sitting on the couch, we wondered about the odd sound we were hearing. Again to the window, and there was a Mourning Dove singing its mournful song. It is known to invoke new waters of life, creating new birth as one releases the past and embraces the future. This was synchronistic confirmation and yes, I cried.

 

Desire for Flight

 

"Hawks are one of the most intriguing and mystical

of the birds of prey.  They are the messengers, the 

protectors, and the visionaries of the air."

Ted Andrews 

Whenever a hawk enters my vision, I am alerted that a message is coming my way.  If it is sitting in a tree, I know to be patient, but observant.  If it flies across my path, I realize a shift of some sort is approaching.  

In meditation, I have experienced the flight of a hawk.  I have felt the strength of extended wings as the rush of currents pulled me higher.  Landscapes, as seen through keen eyes of this predator, offer expansive definition of living and life.

The hawk is known to awaken life purpose.  It is a connector between spirit and humans as it navigates the realm of the sky.  It offers the urge to have powerful communication as well as quietude to be alone.  The hawk initiates the desire to take flight.

Nature's Examples Speak Volumes

.

"The vibrating hum of the hummingbirds wings and

their lightness seem to symbolize the subtle energetic

healing which essences can provide."

Ted Andrews

ANIMALS SPEAK

In route to the hummingbird feeder, two hummingbirds flew by my head, one on each side.  The unexpected vibration seemed to awaken every cell of my body.  I felt as though I had just been touched by an energy introducing me to the very sweetness of life.  

These tiny birds impacted a human form which is a message for sure.  The delicate way they maneuver through life is the very replica of peace and harmony.  It is amazing to grasp how far these birds fly over the course of their lives.  Is this nature once again telling us of the power within no matter our frame or circumstances?

Ted Andrews in his wonderful book, ANIMALS SPEAK, mentions that hummingbirds are messengers of "hope and jubilation".   He also comments that these particular birds "aggressively seek out those who need inspiration and renewal." I want to be more like the hummingbirds.  I desire to make my presence    gentle and peaceful, yet willing to go great lengths. Yes, they inspire me, but then they always have.   
                          
                        (Does anyone remember the song "Hummingbird" by Seals and Croft?)